CFRP Laminates Reinforcing Performance of Short-Span Wedge-Blocks Segmental Beams

Two of the main advantages of segmental construction are economics, as well as the rapid construction technique. One of the forms of segmental construction, for structural elements, is the segmental beams that built-in short sections, which referred to segments. This research aims to exhibit a new technique for the fabrication of short-span segmental beams from wedge-shaped concrete segments and carbon fiber reinforced polymers (CFRP) in laminate form. The experimental campaign included eight short-span segmental beams. In this study, two selected parameters were considered. These parameters are; the number of layers of CFRP laminates and the adhesive material that used to bond segments to each other, forming short-span segmental beams. The test results showed that for segmental beams reinforced by 2-layer of CFRP laminates, undergoes less deflection and sustained considerable ultimate loading value of 38.4%−104% than beams reinforced by 1-layer. Moreover, the test of segmental beams fabricated by adhering to the concrete segments with epoxy resin exhibited an increase in ultimate loading by 16%−65% than beams constructed using cementitious adhesive for bonding the wedge-shaped segments. Theoretically, segmental beams were analyzed by the American Concrete Institute (ACI) 440.2R-17 procedure with slight modifications. The analysis gave an overestimation of flexural strength for segmental beams when compared with experimental outcomes.